Exporting Your Authy MFA Codes to Another MFA App
AI-generated, human-reviewed.
Moving your multi-factor authentication (MFA) codes from one app to another can be daunting, especially if you're leaving a service like Authy that makes exporting more complex. On Hands-On Tech, Mikah Sargent clarified the best, safest way to switch your MFA app to something more portable—and why you shouldn't trust shortcuts.
Why Changing MFA Apps Matters Now
If you started using Authy for your two-factor authentication codes, you might have discovered that exporting or migrating your tokens isn't easy. With Authy's desktop app now deprecated, the process of moving to more open options—like Proton Pass, Microsoft Authenticator, or Google Authenticator—means doing things manually. This matters because standard MFA solutions are much more portable and future-proof, making it easier to switch devices or apps down the line.
Quick Summary: The Recommended Migration Process
On the latest episode, Mikah Sargent explained that the safest and most reliable way to switch MFA apps is to manually reset two-factor authentication for each account:
- Log into each account currently protected by Authy.
- Navigate to the security settings.
- Disable two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Re-enable 2FA, this time scanning the new barcode with your new authentication app.
While it's tedious if you have many accounts, this ensures security and gives you a fresh, portable setup that won't lock you in again.
Why Not to Use Shortcuts
You may find online guides suggesting ways to "export" tokens from Authy using jailbroken devices or possibly untrusted desktop apps. Mikah Sargent strongly advised against these risky methods. Downloading unofficial software or using complex scripts can expose your codes—and accounts—to theft. Security should always take priority over convenience.
Who Should Switch and What to Choose Next
If you value portability, control, and future-proofing, moving away from Authy is a smart move. Options like Proton Pass, Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, or even the MFA feature within your password manager (like Bitwarden or 1Password) are recommended. These apps allow easier code export/import and broader compatibility.
Proton Pass, for instance, allows exporting codes for simple migration later—a feature missing from Authy.
Step-by-Step: How to Move Your 2FA Codes
- List Your Accounts: Note every site where you use Authy for authentication.
- Prepare Your New App: Install your chosen new authenticator.
- Account-by-Account:
- Sign in and disable 2FA, verifying with your Authy code.
- Re-enable 2FA, selecting to set up with a new authenticator.
- Scan the provided barcode or enter the setup key in your new app.
- Test the code before logging out.
- Backup Recovery Codes: Many services provide backup codes—save these in a secure place in case you lose access to your authenticator.
- Repeat for Each Account: Complete the process for each service to ensure full migration.
Key Takeaways
- Manual migration is the safest and most secure method.
- Authy's lack of export options means shortcuts could threaten your account safety.
- Once migrated, standard MFA solutions make transferring codes between devices or apps much easier in the future.
What This Means for You
If you're using Authy and feeling stuck, don't risk your security with untrusted workarounds. Invest the time to switch manually, and choose authenticator solutions that support export for future flexibility.
The Bottom Line
Switching away from Authy is a one-time hassle that pays off with improved security and long-term convenience. Take the time to do it right—a safe, manual migration protects your accounts and simplifies moving authentication codes later.
Stay updated and get more practical security tips by subscribing to Hands-On Tech:
https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech/episodes/244
